Australian actress Rachael Carpani, best known for her role as Jodi Fountain on McLeod’s Daughters, has died at the age of 45, her family announced. The actress passed away unexpectedly but peacefully after a long battle with a chronic illness. Her sister, Georgia, confirmed the news in a statement shared on Monday, December 15. “It is with great sadness that Tony and Gael Carpani announce that their beautiful daughter, beloved Australian actress Rachael Carpani, unexpectedly but peacefully passed away after a long battle with chronic illness,” the statement read.

Born in Sydney, Carpani built a successful career in both Australian and American television. She starred on McLeod’s Daughters from 2001 to 2009 and later appeared in U.S. productions including NCIS: Los Angeles, Against the Wall, If There Be Thorns, and The Glades. She also appeared in the 2009 film Triangle alongside Liam Hemsworth.

The family said a private funeral will be held on December 19 and requested privacy during this difficult time. While the exact nature of Carpani’s illness was not disclosed, she revealed in 2021 that she had been hospitalized and treated in intensive care for acute abdominal pain, urging fans to “listen to what your body is trying to tell you.”

Tributes poured in from fans and colleagues. McLeod’s Daughters co-star Bridie Carter wrote, “Rest in peace our beautiful girl… We love you, we cherish you.” Rachael Carpani is remembered for her talent, warmth, and lasting impact on audiences around the world.